May 21, 2006

did you notice that?

I think there is a difference between observing and noticing. The difference is subtle, but it is distinct nonetheless. Observing seems more conscious and strategic. To observe something implies a kind of hope for discovery. A mystery hunt with a goal in mind. A kind of science project.
Whereas noticing has its own story that emerges. The person who is noticing is of course the filter, but regardless, what catches the eye has a lean toward the viewer that doesn't necessarily happen when you are observing something. Noticing seems to demand more trust than observing. Trust in what presents itself. Trust about why it rises above the noise.

Now I'm not at all against the observing of things. I just think I want to foster more noticing. You know?